CONSTITUTIONAL MONARCHY"What is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy?"
Multi Genre ProjectbyAndrew W. Yoon
Preface Government. A governing body of a nation or state has all ways been and will be one of the vital elements that defines an orderly, civilised community. The system of authority and order has been around ever since the beginning of our existence. Earliest forms of government may not have been as logical or structured as the kinds of government we see today, but there was always someone in charge. A person followed by all others that leads and commands the group. This principal player of the pact, has been called by numerous kinds of names throughout history, largely based on the forms of government. For example, in a tribe there is a chief. In the medieval times, when the clergy were placed on top amongst all social classes, the pope, known as the Holy Father was the ultimate leader. A king or queen were titles called to those who ruled a kingdom based on a system of government known as monarchy. Monarchy, literally is a form of government with a monarch as the head. Although, this particular form of government partly faced extinction in the late 19th century and 20th century, due to the introduction of democracy and constitution. Some monarchies fell unable to cope with the rapidly modernising world, while some continued the tradition of a monarchial system of government, but modified it to fit democracy and the constitution. This was the introduction of a constitutional monarchy. A form of government in which the sovereign is the head of state, but the powers placed within the limitation by a written constitution. But if countries are democratic, they might as well be a republic, where no sovereign is needed. A president or a prime minister can manage everything, why is a monarch still necessary? What is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy? That is the question yet to be answered.
Genre 1: Basic Research Paper
The first genre of this Multi Genre Project is a research paper. Its purpose is to provide the reader with fundamental but vital information about the topic and question, in this case; what is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy? This genre, although requiring the most work, is the most important out of all the genres. This research paper provides all the raw information needed to answer my question, also providing information for my other two genres. It may not seem so interesting, for it's just a simple reseach paper. But the first genre helps to answer the question in the most efficient and informative way.
Andrew W. Yoon
English 10 D Mr. Stephens
25.10.09 CONSTITUTIONAL MONARCHY"What is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy?"
“I am the state.” - Louis XIV of France
Above is a famous quote by Louis XIV of France (“Louis XIV - quote on government - ABC CLIO” 2009). Devoted most of his long life, reigning over seventy years, longest reign in any European monarch in recorded history, in centralising the government and eliminating the remains of feudalism enduring in parts of the Kingdom (“Louis XIV - ABC CLIO” 2009). He is the archetype of an absolute monarch. As in the sovereign holds supreme power, unlimited by the constitution or anything for that matter.
“I cannot lead you into battle. I do not give you laws or administer justice but I can do something else - I can give my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations.” - Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom (“Elizabeth II - quote on patriotism - ABC CLIO” 2009)
Whenever one hears of the words such as royal, castle, England, etc.- Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom immediately pops up in one’s mind. Yes, she is the most representative figure today, to be described as a royal. A constitutional one if I may add. Going through rapid phases of human history, World War I and II, she is clearly the most obvious and prominent archetype of a constitutional monarch (“Elizabeth II - ABC CLIO” 2009). The British Monarchy, like few other constitutional monarchies in existence today, was successful in modifying itself to cope with the modernising world, changing towards the governmental system known as democracy. The British Monarchy, along with other constitutional monarchies, bear a whole different role in their societies today compared to those of the absolute monarchies’ (Taylor). What draws curiosity is the purpose of this peculiar form of monarchy’s existence in the 21st century, when democracy and forms of government such as republic is so well organised and capable of managing the country without a royal figure head. What is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy?
So there are basically two forms of different monarchies today. An absolute monarchy and a constitutional monarchy (“monarchy - ABC CLIO” 2009). In the case of an absolute monarchy, the sovereign, which is the head of state, holds the principal executive power. There is no need for the monarch to confer with his subjects or his advisors to make his decisions. In essence, the monarch has unrestricted power. Many forms of European monarchy show this trait pre-World War I and World War II. Contemporary examples of absolute monarchies would be the governmental systems of the Vatican City, Qatar, or Oman, where the sovereign asserts absolute power as both heads of state and government (Bogdadnor).
A constitutional monarchy, on the other hand, has rudimentary differences when it comes to its way of executing the sovereign’s power, and the limitations of it. The sovereign is still in possession of the office as the head of state, but the control and the potency executed by this office is notably demoted compared to of an absolute monarch. And the system that puts border to the sovereign’s power is the parliament and the constitution. Although this limitation varies amongst different constitutional monarchies (Bognador).
Lucidly comparing these two forms of monarchies, again, it draws attention on why constitutional monarchies go on existing today.
Based on the paragraphs above, the benefits of having an absolute monarchy, even to this day can be summed up into these factors. Although the sovereign’s unlimited power may put limitations of the liberty of the people themselves, an absolute monarchy due to its straightforwardness and simplicity can intensify solidity and steadiness in terms of governing the nation. The many subdivisions that are obligatory in governments based on democracy is simplified to one ruler in an absolutist monarchy. Countries in Africa or Middle East that frequently have to face short lasting government administrations can adopt absolute monarchy or a system similar to in order to stabilise the government.
Very well. We now know the basic purpose and usefulness of an absolute monarchy. But the central question yet to be answered in this essay is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy. Compare to an absolute monarchy, a constitutional monarchy’s control over the nation is notably bordered. It is strictly limited by the parliament and the constitution (“constitutional monarchy - ABC CLIO” 2009). Despite the severe restrictions, the sovereign still retains some power. A constitutional monarch has the ability to start or disband the parliament, the right to veto a request for a creation of a law, the power to dismiss the prime minister, etc. For example, a constitutional monarch can reason the prime minister’s misconduct and fire him. In a situation of when there isn’t a clear administration legible for governing, the sovereign plays a role in forming a merger between parties to form a functioning government. These powers largely vary over different constitutional monarchies. In the case of Japan for example, despite the fact the emperor has no remaining political influence, he is thought to be the national figurehead and the symbol of the Japanese people’s unity (“Akihito - ABC CLIO” 2009). So why is a constitutional monarch necessary when the prime minister is responsible for administering the nation? The prime minister is a democratically elected individual who only represents the ones that support him. On the other hand, a constitutional monarch represents all people, with its special characteristic of being a head of state, yet a figure unrelated to politics.
Lastly, we arrive at a conclusion which still draws our attention and curiosity. We now know that a constitutional monarch plays a vital role in many countries, even to this day when the system of monarchy is long since outdated. The constitutional monarch may not be a political figure like an absolute monarch, but he represents the people and the unity of the whole nation. The sovereign despite his apolitical characteristic remains closely affiliated with the government. Providing advise for the prime minister and acting as a third person in charge to resolve conflicts when there is no one else available. The reason why this interesting system, a combination of democracy and monarchy continues on is because the majority of the nations with the system of constitutional monarchy, the subjects actually prefer the system over others. WORKS CITED
Taylor, John A. British Monarchy, English Church Establishment and Civil Liberty. Westport: Greenwood Press, USA, 1996.
Genre 2: Journal Entry
The second genre of the Multi Genre Project provides the reader with information in answering the question what is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy? by presenting it in a factual yet interesting manner; a personal diary. This genre is a fiction, it is a diary of a constutional monarch writing about his daily life as a sovereign. The objective of this genre is to present the answer to the question to the reader in the stance of the actual constitutional monarch himself. Disputes over whether the answer is right or wrong is always inevitable due to different perspectives. Assuming the readers are regular civilians, it is intriguing to see the view of a different person, in this case; the constitutional monarch himself. Although it is fictional, the information provided is based on real facts and information about the daily lives of contemporary constitutional monarchs of the world today.
Sunday, 30 May, 1234 Dear Diary,
Another day, gone. My day as sovereign is as busy as always. Today, as busy as always my duties as sovereign go on. But interestingly I questioned myself this morning reading letters from the public during breakfast. Why do I exist? What is the purpose of the constitutional monarchy? What if I am damaging the crown? My thoughts also arrive at an interesting topic, what if I were an absolute monarch? Being a constitutional monarch I am no longer in charge of the political aspects in ruling the country- but mainly public duties, like ceremonies, receptions and visits within my country and abroad. I wonder if my people know this. Life of a sovereign, a constitutional one in my case isn’t a life of a fairy tale as many might think. Not at all. My other duties are carried out away through the camera and the television, but they are just as important as my major duties as sovereign. Even today, I began my day reading letters from my subjects, papers of briefings. Meeting my Private Secretaries, yes I have multiple secretaries, to discuss important matters of daily affairs and my schedule. I sometimes wonder- if this life is worth all this. Even when I am away from the capital, in my other residences in other parts of the country, I continually receive letters and papers every hour. I am always vigilant and am fully informed on matters of my kingdom. When I am on television or not, my duties carry on, and I must say, I never had two days in my life that were ever the same. I have important duties, as Head of State of my country and my subjects. Although the powers of sovereign is notably reduced compared to past Kings and Queens before me- I am still grateful and happy with the privileges I enjoy. Unlike the previous monarchs, I do not rule but serve my country. As a constitutional monarch, I do not rule, my duties are mainly ceremonial and roles of formality with respect to my Government. I am the Head of the Armed Forces. Day when I question my existence and purpose, I often comfort myself with words of consolation. Without me, who will represent my people? Who will symbolise national unity? Who will be brave enough to disband and start a parliament? Who will be brave enough to protect my people from the corruption politics? And lastly, although I cannot vote nor take part in politics- it is MY Government after all.
Yours,
Andrew III R Genre 3: Venn diagram
The third genre is more visual than informative in terms of text. The venn diagram below clearly shows the fundamental difference of an abosolute monarchy and a constitutional monarchy. And in the centre purple area indicates the similarities of two different types of monarchies. A venn diagram represents two different things in circles, common elements being shown in the overlapped area. It is great for comparing two different things. It also provided information on the usefulness, the fuction, and the purpose of the two types of monarchies. I used the programme Pages in order to complete this genre. I simply overallped two circles and raised its opacity so it is see-through.
Epologue
By completing the Multi Genre Project, I now notice the hard work and effort needed to write a proper research paper with correct in-text-citations. This is my first time writing a research paper in such a professional way. Although the process was hard, the information on the topic and the knowledge in how to write these sources is very valuable. I feel that the Multi Genre Project will help me in the future to become professional in writing and citing sources- giving credit to the people who actually wrote the information. I also feel that this project was extremely informative and helpful in terms of the diversity, the various ways in answering one question using multiple genres. Some informative, while some fun and visual. I wish people learned the same important things I've learned by doing this project. Lastly, my perspective of citations changed. First I thought it was a tedious process that is often annoying. But now I feel that it is crucial to have correct citations in a research paper and it's actually not so hard. Overall- the project was informative and fun.
Citation for the picture of a crown on th very top.
"Crown." Crown Jewels. 25 Oct. 2009 <etc.usf.edu/clipart/2100/2114/crown_1_lg.gif>.
Multi Genre ProjectbyAndrew W. Yoon
Preface
Government. A governing body of a nation or state has all ways been and will be one of the vital elements that defines an orderly, civilised community. The system of authority and order has been around ever since the beginning of our existence. Earliest forms of government may not have been as logical or structured as the kinds of government we see today, but there was always someone in charge. A person followed by all others that leads and commands the group. This principal player of the pact, has been called by numerous kinds of names throughout history, largely based on the forms of government. For example, in a tribe there is a chief. In the medieval times, when the clergy were placed on top amongst all social classes, the pope, known as the Holy Father was the ultimate leader. A king or queen were titles called to those who ruled a kingdom based on a system of government known as monarchy. Monarchy, literally is a form of government with a monarch as the head. Although, this particular form of government partly faced extinction in the late 19th century and 20th century, due to the introduction of democracy and constitution. Some monarchies fell unable to cope with the rapidly modernising world, while some continued the tradition of a monarchial system of government, but modified it to fit democracy and the constitution. This was the introduction of a constitutional monarchy. A form of government in which the sovereign is the head of state, but the powers placed within the limitation by a written constitution. But if countries are democratic, they might as well be a republic, where no sovereign is needed. A president or a prime minister can manage everything, why is a monarch still necessary? What is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy? That is the question yet to be answered.
Genre 1: Basic Research Paper
The first genre of this Multi Genre Project is a research paper. Its purpose is to provide the reader with fundamental but vital information about the topic and question, in this case; what is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy? This genre, although requiring the most work, is the most important out of all the genres. This research paper provides all the raw information needed to answer my question, also providing information for my other two genres. It may not seem so interesting, for it's just a simple reseach paper. But the first genre helps to answer the question in the most efficient and informative way.
Andrew W. Yoon
English 10 D
Mr. Stephens
25.10.09 CONSTITUTIONAL MONARCHY"What is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy?"
“I am the state.” - Louis XIV of France
Above is a famous quote by Louis XIV of France (“Louis XIV - quote on government - ABC CLIO” 2009). Devoted most of his long life, reigning over seventy years, longest reign in any European monarch in recorded history, in centralising the government and eliminating the remains of feudalism enduring in parts of the Kingdom (“Louis XIV - ABC CLIO” 2009). He is the archetype of an absolute monarch. As in the sovereign holds supreme power, unlimited by the constitution or anything for that matter.
“I cannot lead you into battle. I do not give you laws or administer justice but I can do something else - I can give my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations.” - Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom (“Elizabeth II - quote on patriotism - ABC CLIO” 2009)
Whenever one hears of the words such as royal, castle, England, etc.- Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom immediately pops up in one’s mind. Yes, she is the most representative figure today, to be described as a royal. A constitutional one if I may add. Going through rapid phases of human history, World War I and II, she is clearly the most obvious and prominent archetype of a constitutional monarch (“Elizabeth II - ABC CLIO” 2009). The British Monarchy, like few other constitutional monarchies in existence today, was successful in modifying itself to cope with the modernising world, changing towards the governmental system known as democracy. The British Monarchy, along with other constitutional monarchies, bear a whole different role in their societies today compared to those of the absolute monarchies’ (Taylor). What draws curiosity is the purpose of this peculiar form of monarchy’s existence in the 21st century, when democracy and forms of government such as republic is so well organised and capable of managing the country without a royal figure head. What is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy?
So there are basically two forms of different monarchies today. An absolute monarchy and a constitutional monarchy (“monarchy - ABC CLIO” 2009). In the case of an absolute monarchy, the sovereign, which is the head of state, holds the principal executive power. There is no need for the monarch to confer with his subjects or his advisors to make his decisions. In essence, the monarch has unrestricted power. Many forms of European monarchy show this trait pre-World War I and World War II. Contemporary examples of absolute monarchies would be the governmental systems of the Vatican City, Qatar, or Oman, where the sovereign asserts absolute power as both heads of state and government (Bogdadnor).
A constitutional monarchy, on the other hand, has rudimentary differences when it comes to its way of executing the sovereign’s power, and the limitations of it. The sovereign is still in possession of the office as the head of state, but the control and the potency executed by this office is notably demoted compared to of an absolute monarch. And the system that puts border to the sovereign’s power is the parliament and the constitution. Although this limitation varies amongst different constitutional monarchies (Bognador).
Lucidly comparing these two forms of monarchies, again, it draws attention on why constitutional monarchies go on existing today.
Based on the paragraphs above, the benefits of having an absolute monarchy, even to this day can be summed up into these factors. Although the sovereign’s unlimited power may put limitations of the liberty of the people themselves, an absolute monarchy due to its straightforwardness and simplicity can intensify solidity and steadiness in terms of governing the nation. The many subdivisions that are obligatory in governments based on democracy is simplified to one ruler in an absolutist monarchy. Countries in Africa or Middle East that frequently have to face short lasting government administrations can adopt absolute monarchy or a system similar to in order to stabilise the government.
Very well. We now know the basic purpose and usefulness of an absolute monarchy. But the central question yet to be answered in this essay is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy. Compare to an absolute monarchy, a constitutional monarchy’s control over the nation is notably bordered. It is strictly limited by the parliament and the constitution (“constitutional monarchy - ABC CLIO” 2009). Despite the severe restrictions, the sovereign still retains some power. A constitutional monarch has the ability to start or disband the parliament, the right to veto a request for a creation of a law, the power to dismiss the prime minister, etc. For example, a constitutional monarch can reason the prime minister’s misconduct and fire him. In a situation of when there isn’t a clear administration legible for governing, the sovereign plays a role in forming a merger between parties to form a functioning government. These powers largely vary over different constitutional monarchies. In the case of Japan for example, despite the fact the emperor has no remaining political influence, he is thought to be the national figurehead and the symbol of the Japanese people’s unity (“Akihito - ABC CLIO” 2009). So why is a constitutional monarch necessary when the prime minister is responsible for administering the nation? The prime minister is a democratically elected individual who only represents the ones that support him. On the other hand, a constitutional monarch represents all people, with its special characteristic of being a head of state, yet a figure unrelated to politics.
Lastly, we arrive at a conclusion which still draws our attention and curiosity. We now know that a constitutional monarch plays a vital role in many countries, even to this day when the system of monarchy is long since outdated. The constitutional monarch may not be a political figure like an absolute monarch, but he represents the people and the unity of the whole nation. The sovereign despite his apolitical characteristic remains closely affiliated with the government. Providing advise for the prime minister and acting as a third person in charge to resolve conflicts when there is no one else available. The reason why this interesting system, a combination of democracy and monarchy continues on is because the majority of the nations with the system of constitutional monarchy, the subjects actually prefer the system over others.
WORKS CITED
Akihito." World History: The Modern Era. 2009. ABC-CLIO. 8 Sep. 2009 <http://www.worldhistory.abc-clio.com>.
Bogdanor, Vernon. The Monarchy and the Constitution. New York: Oxford University Press, USA, 1998.
"constitutional monarchy." World History: The Modern Era. 2009. ABC-CLIO. 8 Sep. 2009 <http://www.worldhistory.abc-clio.com>.
"Elizabeth II." World History: The Modern Era. 2009. ABC-CLIO. 8 Sep. 2009 <http://www.worldhistory.abc-clio.com>.
"Elizabeth II: quote on patriotism." World History: The Modern Era. ABC-CLIO, 2009. Web. 25 Oct. 2009. <http://www.worldhistory.abc-clio.com>.
"Louis XIV: quote on government." World History: The Modern Era. ABC-CLIO, 2009. Web. 25 Oct. 2009. <http://www.worldhistory.abc-clio.com>.
"Louis XIV." World History: The Modern Era. ABC-CLIO, 2009. Web. 25 Oct. 2009. <http://www.worldhistory.abc-clio.com>.
"monarchy." World History: The Modern Era. ABC-CLIO, 2009. Web. 25 Oct. 2009. <http://www.worldhistory.abc-clio.com>.
Taylor, John A. British Monarchy, English Church Establishment and Civil Liberty. Westport: Greenwood Press, USA, 1996.
Genre 2: Journal Entry
The second genre of the Multi Genre Project provides the reader with information in answering the question what is the purpose of a constitutional monarchy? by presenting it in a factual yet interesting manner; a personal diary. This genre is a fiction, it is a diary of a constutional monarch writing about his daily life as a sovereign. The objective of this genre is to present the answer to the question to the reader in the stance of the actual constitutional monarch himself. Disputes over whether the answer is right or wrong is always inevitable due to different perspectives. Assuming the readers are regular civilians, it is intriguing to see the view of a different person, in this case; the constitutional monarch himself. Although it is fictional, the information provided is based on real facts and information about the daily lives of contemporary constitutional monarchs of the world today.
Sunday, 30 May, 1234
Dear Diary,
Another day, gone. My day as sovereign is as busy as always. Today, as busy as always my duties as sovereign go on. But interestingly I questioned myself this morning reading letters from the public during breakfast. Why do I exist? What is the purpose of the constitutional monarchy? What if I am damaging the crown? My thoughts also arrive at an interesting topic, what if I were an absolute monarch? Being a constitutional monarch I am no longer in charge of the political aspects in ruling the country- but mainly public duties, like ceremonies, receptions and visits within my country and abroad. I wonder if my people know this. Life of a sovereign, a constitutional one in my case isn’t a life of a fairy tale as many might think. Not at all. My other duties are carried out away through the camera and the television, but they are just as important as my major duties as sovereign. Even today, I began my day reading letters from my subjects, papers of briefings. Meeting my Private Secretaries, yes I have multiple secretaries, to discuss important matters of daily affairs and my schedule. I sometimes wonder- if this life is worth all this. Even when I am away from the capital, in my other residences in other parts of the country, I continually receive letters and papers every hour. I am always vigilant and am fully informed on matters of my kingdom. When I am on television or not, my duties carry on, and I must say, I never had two days in my life that were ever the same. I have important duties, as Head of State of my country and my subjects. Although the powers of sovereign is notably reduced compared to past Kings and Queens before me- I am still grateful and happy with the privileges I enjoy. Unlike the previous monarchs, I do not rule but serve my country. As a constitutional monarch, I do not rule, my duties are mainly ceremonial and roles of formality with respect to my Government. I am the Head of the Armed Forces. Day when I question my existence and purpose, I often comfort myself with words of consolation. Without me, who will represent my people? Who will symbolise national unity? Who will be brave enough to disband and start a parliament? Who will be brave enough to protect my people from the corruption politics? And lastly, although I cannot vote nor take part in politics- it is MY Government after all.
Yours,
Andrew III R
Genre 3: Venn diagram
The third genre is more visual than informative in terms of text. The venn diagram below clearly shows the fundamental difference of an abosolute monarchy and a constitutional monarchy. And in the centre purple area indicates the similarities of two different types of monarchies. A venn diagram represents two different things in circles, common elements being shown in the overlapped area. It is great for comparing two different things. It also provided information on the usefulness, the fuction, and the purpose of the two types of monarchies. I used the programme Pages in order to complete this genre. I simply overallped two circles and raised its opacity so it is see-through.
Epologue
By completing the Multi Genre Project, I now notice the hard work and effort needed to write a proper research paper with correct in-text-citations. This is my first time writing a research paper in such a professional way. Although the process was hard, the information on the topic and the knowledge in how to write these sources is very valuable. I feel that the Multi Genre Project will help me in the future to become professional in writing and citing sources- giving credit to the people who actually wrote the information. I also feel that this project was extremely informative and helpful in terms of the diversity, the various ways in answering one question using multiple genres. Some informative, while some fun and visual. I wish people learned the same important things I've learned by doing this project. Lastly, my perspective of citations changed. First I thought it was a tedious process that is often annoying. But now I feel that it is crucial to have correct citations in a research paper and it's actually not so hard. Overall- the project was informative and fun.
Citation for the picture of a crown on th very top.
"Crown." Crown Jewels. 25 Oct. 2009 <etc.usf.edu/clipart/2100/2114/crown_1_lg.gif>.